Not medically reviewed
Haematology
Lymphocytes (absolute count)
Not medically reviewed · Content last updated · 1 min read ·
This is the date the draft was written, not a medical review date.
Lymphocytes (T, B and NK cells) mediate adaptive immunity. The absolute count is higher in children and falls with age.
Reference interval
| Conventional (x10^3/µL) | SI (x10^9/L) | |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 1–4 x10^3/µL | 1–4 x10^9/L |
Specimen: Whole blood (EDTA) · Conventional × 1 = SI
Causes of high values
Lymphocytosis: viral infections (for example EBV, CMV), pertussis, tuberculosis, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and other lymphoproliferative disorders.
Causes of low values
Lymphopenia: HIV infection, corticosteroids, chemotherapy and radiation, acute severe illness, autoimmune disease and primary immunodeficiency.
Pre-analytical and method notes
Reference intervals are strongly age-dependent (children have higher counts) and vary by laboratory. Reactive lymphocytes on the film help distinguish viral lymphocytosis from clonal disease.
References
- Rifai N, Horvath AR, Wittwer CT. Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics. Elsevier, 6th edition (2018) — Tier 3 (textbook)
- McPherson RA, Pincus MR. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. Elsevier — Tier 3 (textbook)
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